All the Best Audi Compact SUVs

Audi has four models of SUV in their 2023 lineup that can be considered subcompact or compact. Here are the details.
Written by Amber Reed
Reviewed by Brittni Brinn
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Audi’s massive 2023 lineup includes six SUV models, four of which are on the small side of the spectrum—and two of them are all-electric.
When we say massive, we mean massive: 17 models plus a multitude of body styles equals some 59-odd different Audis to choose from. But before your eyes glaze over, there are just six models that Audi calls SUVs, and only four of them are compact or subcompact. If you’re curious about these little luxury beauties, you’ve come to the right place! 
Read on for a broad overview of Audi’s smallest SUV models with
Jerry
, the
trustworthy car insurance super app
that will make sure you’re never overwhelmed with too many options. And before we’re done, we’ll give you some pointers on how to keep your
Audi insurance costs
as small as possible. 
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2023 Audi compact and subcompact SUV models

There are four models of small SUVs currently offered by Audi—one subcompact and three compacts. As a luxury model, all of these SUVs are going to come with a generous supply of features and plenty of high-end touches—it’s the Audi way!

2023 Audi Q3 ($37,595 to $43,195 MSRP)

The smallest kid on the Audi SUV block is the subcompact Q3. The Q3 looks and feels very much like a scaled-down version of the larger
Audi Q8
, so if you like that model but want something with a smaller profile and footprint, this should fit the bill. 
Car and Driver gave the
Audi Q3
a respectable 8.5/10 and deemed it a well-built and classy vehicle delivered in a nice little package. They found the Q3 to be enjoyable to drive, with all the traits that you would expect in an Audi—power, performance, and comfort. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission are standard and there are four trim levels to choose from. 
Edmunds didn’t seem quite as delighted—they gave the 2023 Q3 an okay 7.8/10, and they seemed to find the driving experience to be less engaging than the folks at Car and Driver. But they allowed that the build quality was impressive and that the Q3 was a beautiful vehicle inside and out. 
The Q3 is the least expensive Audi SUV you can buy, and is intended to lure younger buyers who will hopefully stick with the brand (and move on to pricier models) as they age. 
Highlights of the Q3 include: 
  • Most accessibly priced of all the Audi SUVs
  • Loaded with modern features
  • High-quality interior materials
Weaknesses include: 
  • Turbo can be a little sluggish
  • Small cargo area
  • Cramped back seat

2023 Audi Q4 e-tron ($49,995 to $66,095 MSRP)

Audi has embraced EVs with a vengeance and the compact Q4 e-tron is one of their many offerings. The Q4 e-tron is also available in a swoopier Sportback version (that’s one of those many body styles we mentioned), but most reviewers lump them together. To add to the chaos, some sources call the Q4 e-tron a midsize SUV, but they seem to be in the minority—moving on!
Car and Driver gave the Q4 e-tron an 8/10, which isn’t bad, but not amazing either. As to be expected with an Audi, the quality is impeccable and the features and technology are delightfully plentiful. The driving manners were reported as being polite, but not terribly exciting. 
As far as EV functionality goes, the Q4 e-tron has a range of 265 miles on a full charge, which is quite competitive. It may not be as quick off the line or at the charger as some other rivals, but it’s still a solid option for a luxury electric SUV. \
Edmunds hasn’t reviewed the 2023 model year yet and didn’t have an official rating for the 2022 year either. But their 2022 review echoed a lot of the same sentiments as Car and Driver—the Q4 e-tron might not be the leader of the pack, but it’s still a lovely choice. 
Highlights of the Q4 e-tron include: 
  • All electric powertrain is eco-friendly and saves money on fuel
  • Competitive driving range
  • Abundant tech and features
Weaknesses include: 
  • Not as quick to charge as some rivals
  • Engine with maximum range is also the slowest

2023 Audi Q5 ($44,695 to $66,495 MSRP)

The compact
Audi Q5
is available in three powertrains—one of which is a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV). Like its sibling the Q4, the Q5 also comes in a Sportback flavor.  
Car and Driver gave the 2023 Q5 an 8/10, and Edmunds weighed in with a 7.6/10. While once again these aren’t bad, they’re not exactly glowing scores either. The main issue seems to be while the Q5 is nicely appointed, well-crafted, and full of great features, it’s just not that exciting
Although comfortable, it’s not as spacious as many rivals. And while the driving experience is okay, it’s not quite as exhilarating as you would hope for a luxury vehicle at this price point. All in all, there doesn’t seem to be anything really wrong with the Q5, but there’s also nothing to make it stand out in a crowded field of competitors. But that being said, it’s been a consistent top-seller for Audi for a few years now, so it must be doing something right! 
Highlights of the Q5 include: 
  • Nice powertrain choices that include a PHEV option
  • Interior is quiet and comfortable
  • High-quality materials throughout
Weaknesses include: 
  • No distinguishing traits in a crowded class
  • Driving dynamics a bit on the bland side
MORE: Does Audi have a self-driving car?

2023 Audi e-tron ($71,995 to $99,095 MSRP)

Pushing into the six-figure price tag arena is the all-electric Audi e-tron. Some reviewers liken its style to that of a smaller Q7, which is Audi’s sole three-row SUV. The e-tron will offer the most cargo and passenger space of all the options here and is available as a Sportback as well.
The e-tron doesn’t have quite the range of some rivals, with the ability to get 218–222 miles on a full charge. But what it lacks in driving range, it makes up for in opulence and comfort. The 2023 e-tron is a delight to be in, with a roomy cabin that’s quiet and exceedingly comfortable
At this price point, you expect to see some ridiculous levels of luxury—indulgent features like massaging front seats and a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system can all be yours for the right price. Car and Driver gave the 2023 e-tron a now-familiar 8/10. Edmunds scored it a 7.7/10, and while they allowed that it was ludicrously comfortable, they also ranked it last among luxury all-wheel drive electric SUVs. 
Highlights of the e-tron include: 
  • 4000-pound towing capacity
  • Interior is roomy, plush, and quiet
  • All-electric power train is friendly to the planet and your fuel expenses
  • Lots of fancy and desirable tech
Weaknesses include:
  • Regenerative braking not the best
  • Range lacking when compared to some rivals
  • Higher trim levels quite expensive

Other small Audi models

As previously mentioned, the number of available Audis borders on annoying. But on the plus side, there are several other models to consider if you want an Audi that you can parallel park without breaking into a sweat: 
  • Audi TT/TTS ($52,295 to $61,995 MSRP): This cute little two-seater gets decent fuel economy for a sports car, and is available as a coupe or convertible.
  • Audi R8 ($161,395 to $230,000 MSRP): This V10 supercar has an eye-catching design and up to 602 horsepower.
There are an abundant amount of sedan and sedan-adjacent options available as well, and depending on your preferences and point of view, some could be considered small as well. 
MORE: Why you should consider an SUV over a sedan

What is Audi’s smallest car? 

The Audi Q3 is the smallest SUV made by Audi, but it’s not the smallest of them all. It looks like that distinction goes to the Audi TT/TTS roadster:
  • Audi TT/TTS wheelbase: 98.6 inches 
  • Audi Q3 wheelbase: 105.5 inches
  • Audi TT/TTS length: 165 inches
  • Audi Q3 length: 176.6 inches

How to save on Audi insurance

No matter what size car you have, you’ll want to do your best to save big on your
car insurance
. With a luxury brand like Audi, insurance will tend to be a little more expensive—but that doesn’t mean that
Jerry
can’t still work some magic. 
Just download the app, answer a few basic questions, and in a matter of seconds, Jerry will bring you a collection of money-saving quotes. All you’ll need to do is pick the provider that’s best for you, and Jerry will handle the sign-up process.
 “I thought my previous insurance rate was the best I could get, since I have a luxury SUV. After
Jerry
found me quotes, I ended up paying only $80 a month for the same exact coverage. I’ll be shopping for auto insurance through Jerry from now on!” —Petra S.
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